Does Adding Lidocaine to Corticosteroid Injections Reduce Pain Intensity in Hand Surgery

Does Adding Lidocaine to Corticosteroid Injections Reduce Pain Intensity in Hand Surgery

The purpose of this study was to determine whether adding Lidocaine to Corticosteroid injections reduce pain intensity in hand surgery.

There is a lack of evidence about the use of lidocaine injection as an addition to steroids against pain during injections. Adding lidocaine adds to the volume of the injection, which might increase pain. It's possible that injecting cortisone without any lidocaine would be more comfortable than with lidocaine.

The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to assess the difference in pain intensity (during the injection and 4 hours later) between patients receiving a corticosteroid injection with or without lidocaine in patients with a hand condition. Secondarily, the aim of this study is to assess factors independently associated with pain intensity, satisfaction with the visit, and perceived empathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients offered a steroid injection in a hand surgeon's office
• Aged 18-89 years
• English speaking patients
• Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion criteria:

• Non-English/Spanish speakers